The journal

Essays & field notes

Writing about rooted practice, generous households, meaningful journeys, memorable books, and the particular seasons of Oak Creek.

Oak Creek Almanac

Highbush Cranberries

A neglected stretch of fence line, a hidden native shrub, and plans for a tart autumn jam or cocktail syrup.

Journeys & Places

A Drag Show?

A Magic: The Gathering-themed drag show at X-Ray Arcade becomes another strange little Milwaukee adventure with our exchange students.

Journeys & Places

Slingshot Bar in West Allis, WI

Slingshots, scattered clay ammunition, and a friendly competition with our foreign exchange students at Slingshot Bar in West Allis.

Home & Family

Cholula — The Host Sister

Cholula, our aging black lab, has welcomed every exchange student into our family. This is her part in the arrivals, goodbyes, and homecomings.

Journeys & Places

A Trip to a Wisconsin Oktoberfest

An afternoon at Oktoberfest becomes a reflection on hospitality, cultural exchange, and the ordinary moments that turn strangers into family.

Druidry & Practice

My Senior Thesis - Catholicism and Santeria

A comparative study of Catholicism and Santería, examining belief, hierarchy, rites, sacred objects, and religious syncretism.

Druidry & Practice

From Nexus to the I-Ching

A video game, a Diviner subpath, and the unexpected beginning of a lifelong I-Ching practice.

Druidry & Practice

An Acorn Charm for a Successful School Year

A Druid-inspired acorn charm for beginning the school year with courage, clarity, kindness, and purpose.

Home & Family

Our 2026-2027 Foreign Exchange Students

Marie of France and Alvaro of Spain join the House of Garcia-Dwyer for the 2026-2027 academic year, bringing its total number of hosted exchange students to seven.